Low Blood Supply Prompts Red Cross to Offer Gift Cards to Donors

HealthDay News — The American Red Cross says it has an urgent need for blood donations, with less than a five-day supply of blood on hand to help those who need it.

The organization noted it first alerted Americans to the need for blood and platelet donations back in early July. And while donation levels did rise, "a critical blood shortage remains," according to a news release from the Red Cross. "At times, blood and platelets are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in, which impacts the ability to rebuild the blood supply."

Right now, the national supply has dipped below the five-day level the Red Cross says it needs to make sure it's ready for unforeseen emergencies.

All blood types are needed, and the Red Cross is even offering donors an incentive in this blood drive. All those who donate by August 31 will receive a $5 Amazon gift card claim code, e-mailed to them after their donation.